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Over the past few years, students planning to study abroad have always underestimated the safety factor in their chosen countries. However, this should be one of the major factors while choosing a country abroad. The crime rates, racism and strict student laws are very crucial for international students while choosing the right country for them. So, in this blog, we will look at some of the safest countries for Indian students abroad, which will include the crime rates, racism index and student laws in detail.
This Blog Includes:
- Crime Rates of Popular Countries
- Racism Index & Discrimination Faced by Indian Students
- Safest Countries for Indian Students Abroad
- Safest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Female Students
- Student Laws & Legal Protection for International Students
- How Can Indian Students Improve Their Personal Safety Abroad?
- FAQs
Crime Rates of Popular Countries
Crime Rates in popular study abroad countries include many aspects. The crime report in urban cities is far more than shared by the national index. In the daily life of international students, crimes on the streets, in transportation and at night can be seen as heightened. Here, we have shared official data on crime rates for study abroad countries that students should know.
| Country | Happiness Index | Crime Rate (%) |
| New Zealand | 7.277 | 42.88% |
| Ireland | 7.085 | 45.51% |
| Denmark | 7.62 | 26.22% |
| Austria | 7.268 | 25.54% |
| Switzerland | 7.571 | 21.62% |
| Canada | 7.103 | 41.89% |
| Germany | 7.155 | 35.79% |
Racism Index & Discrimination Faced by Indian Students
Racism and discrimination are often under-reported when it comes to crime in a foreign country. Many international students think that racism and discrimination are a part of life abroad, but that’s not the truth. The racism factor varies for each country, and it can come in various forms. Racism can range from microaggressions, like subtle comments, stereotypes, or biased assumptions, to macroaggressions like overt hate crimes. Here, from the report of the World Population Review, is the racism and discrimination index for various countries.
| Country | Racism Perception (%) | Discrimination / Safety Concern (%) |
| South Africa | 19.6% | 61.8% |
| Philippines | 30.6% | 49.1% |
| Malaysia | 31.3% | 34.4% |
| Algeria | 19.8% | 41% |
| Thailand | 39.8% | 19% |
| Morocco | 13.8% | 35.6% |
| Ecuador | 34.5% | 32% |
| Japan | 22.3% | 29.7% |
| Turkey | 33.8% | 19.1% |
| India | 43.6% | 64.3% |
| Kuwait | 28.1% | 37.9% |
| Russia | 17% | 38.5% |
| Lebanon | 36.3% | 64.4% |
| Cyprus | 26.7% | 26.1% |
| South Korea | 29.6% | 36.5% |
| Bahrain | 31.1% | 85.7% |
| Pakistan | 14.5% | 48.8% |
| Nigeria | 21% | 42.5% |
| Iraq | 27.7% | 37.8% |
| Yemen | 34% | 31.2% |
| Libya | 54% | 33.5% |
| Hong Kong | 18.8% | 40.4% |
| Kyrgyzstan | 28.1% | 35.9% |
| Palestine | 44% | 32% |
Also Read: 5 Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2026
Safest Countries for Indian Students Abroad
Crime rates, racism and discrimination happen in many countries abroad, but the extent to which they can be accepted matters a lot. There is no one “perfect” destination for international students, but at least the environment should be strong and safe, especially for international students
Iceland
Iceland is known as the world’s safest country for international students. It consists of ranks on the Global Peace Index. Indian students prefer this country because of the high social trust among the neighbours, safe streets, even at night, and strong student laws.
- GPI Rank: 1
- Crime Rate: Very Low
- Racism Index: Very low reported racism and hate crimes
Ireland
Ireland is a friendly, safe and student-centric country and is known as one of the most welcoming countries. Ireland is best for first-time international students who want cultural comfort and safety. This country offers strong university support systems and a large Indian student community.
- GPI Rank: Top 3 globally
- Crime Rate: Moderate, mostly non-violent
- Racism Index: Low-to-moderate
New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most peaceful and politically stable nations worldwide. International students here can find inclusive campuses, safe public transport and strong student protection laws. This country is best for Indians who want to settle here for the long term.
- GPI Rank: Top 5
- Crime Rate: Moderate, concentrated in big cities
- Racism Index: Low overall
Denmark
Denmark is a country which stands on trust, equality, and law enforcement efficiency. This country offers safe cities, transparent legal systems and zero tolerance for discrimination in education, which makes it a preferable safe country for Indian students
- GPI Rank: Top 10
- Crime Rate: Low
- Racism Index: Low-to-moderate, strong legal protection
Finland
Finland has the safest education system and also comes under the happiest countries in the world. This country has strong student welfare, self-housing and strong law enforcement. This country is best for students who value safety, mental well-being, and education quality.
- GPI Rank: Top 10
- Crime Rate: Very low
- Racism Index: Low
Switzerland
Switzerland is a politically neutral country with strict law enforcement. This country has safe cities and transport, a high quality of life and strong legal protection. This country is best for students who want to pursue STEM, hospitality, and research-focused programs.
- GPI Rank: Top 10–15
- Crime Rate: Very low
- Racism Index: Low, with strict hate-crime laws
Safest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Female Students
If you are a female student who is moving abroad for studies, you must have various questions in your mind regarding safety. It includes night safety, public transport safety, gender equality, legal protection, and social attitudes. With all these aspects, it becomes very important to choose a country which offers safety in various aspects. Based on all these, we have shared some of the countries that offer safety for indian female students.
| Country | Crime Rate Level | Racism/Discrimination Risk | Women’s Safety & Legal Protection | Why It’s Safe for Indian Female Students |
| Iceland | Very Low | Very Low | Strong gender equality laws, high trust in police | Women can travel safely even at night; strong respect for women |
| New Zealand | Low to Moderate | Low | Strong student protection and anti-harassment laws | Inclusive culture, safe campuses, reliable public transport |
| Finland | Very Low | Low | Excellent women’s rights and student welfare systems | Safe housing, strong social security, and high police trust |
| Denmark | Low | Low to Moderate | Strict anti-discrimination and workplace laws | Respectful culture, safe cities, excellent public infrastructure |
| Switzerland | Very Low | Low | Strong law enforcement and women’s protection laws | Secure public spaces, disciplined social environment |
| Ireland | Low | Low to Moderate | Strong laws against gender-based violence | English-speaking, supportive campuses, good night safety in student areas |
| Singapore | Extremely Low | Very Low | Strict laws, fast police response | Very safe public transport, large Indian community, zero tolerance for harassment |
Also Read: 5 Best Countries for Student Visa 2025
Student Laws & Legal Protection for International Students
Safety for Indian students abroad is not just about low crime rates, but it also focuses on how strongly the law protects international students. In this section, we will look at these student laws and legal protection for international students, as per the official records.
| Country | Key Student Laws & Protections | Enforcement Strength |
| Canada | Anti-discrimination laws, strong labour protections, tenant rights, and university ombudsman systems | Strong |
| United Kingdom | Equality Act, regulated student work hours, and tenant protection laws | Strong |
| Australia | ESOS Act for international students, workplace protection, and housing regulations | Strong |
| Ireland | Equality legislation, student employment protections, and national tenancy laws | Moderate to Strong |
| New Zealand | Code of Practice for International Students, labour and housing protections | Strong |
| Germany | Constitutional equality rights, worker protections, and regulated housing laws | Strong |
| Japan | Strong public safety laws, employment rules, and housing protection are improving, but are limited | Moderate |
| United States | Civil rights laws, labour protections; enforcement varies by state | Moderate |
How Can Indian Students Improve Their Personal Safety Abroad?
While country-level safety and laws matter, some of the personal choices can also help play a major role in students’ safety abroad. Indian students can make their choice right while keeping the major factors in mind. Here are some of the practical ways to improve your safety while studying abroad.
- City Selection: Not all cities of a country offer the same safety experience. So, it is important to do your research and choose the right city accordingly
- Housing Choices: Safe housing is one of the most important factors in student safety. Always make sure to choose an accommodation near the campus, in a well-lit neighbourhood or in verified private housing.
- Understanding Local Laws: Every country has different rules for international students in various aspects, like work hours, alcohol consumption, driving, and public behaviour. INdian students should familiarise themselves with these laws before moving out
- Cultural Awareness: Cultural differences can make a difference in interpreting the individual’s behaviour. A simple understanding of these behaviours can help in avoiding misunderstanding, which is why it is important to be culturally aware of your chosen country.
FAQs
Iceland is considered the safest country due to extremely low crime rates, strong law enforcement, political stability, and a high level of social trust.
Canada is often the best choice because of quality education, post-study work options, a multicultural society, safety, and clear pathways to permanent residency.
New Zealand offers an excellent balance of globally ranked universities, low crime rates, an inclusive culture, and strong international student protection policies.
Iceland, New Zealand, and Finland consistently rank among the top three safest countries based on crime rates, peace index, and student protection laws.
Germany is among the cheapest study destinations, offering free or very low tuition at public universities, with affordable living costs in many cities.
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So, this was all about the Safest Countries for Indian Students Abroad: Crime Rates, Racism Index & Student Laws. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.
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